Family Vacations & Safaris in South Africa

Marataba Safari Lodge offers an ideal getaway for families with young children, blending African elegance with kid-friendly features. Its family suites come with a special children's bedroom, stocked with toys. The lodge's unique Mack & Maddie Adventure Safari Club captivates kids with activities akin to the Lion King's magic, while parents explore the diverse wildlife in the convergence of the bushveld and the Kalahari. The lodge's immersive game drives provide an exciting educational opportunity for the whole family to witness Africa's Big Five and more, making it a perfect blend of adventure and comfort for South Africa with kids.

Madikwe Safari Lodge is a perfect family getaway in the wilderness, offering a “home-away-from-home” experience in the bush. It's especially accommodating for children, featuring a specially crafted Eco House that hosts various activities to captivate and educate young explorers on your South Africa vacation. These activities range from bush orientation and bug CSI to dung tracking, and there's even a dedicated children's den brimming with engaging items for imaginative play. Additionally, the lodge boasts a pizza oven for fun culinary experiences and traditional safari game drives that both kids and adults can relish together.

Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel is a superb choice for a trip to South Africa with kids that are older, located in Cape Town's cultural heart near the V&A Waterfront and top beaches. It offers spacious family-friendly rooms and suites, some with interconnecting options. Teenagers will appreciate amenities like the large Oasis pool and secluded Cottage pool for over 16s, as well as sports facilities including tennis courts and a fitness center. The hotel also has two excellent restaurants and a renowned afternoon tea. Its central location makes exploring Cape Town's attractions easy, making it an ideal base for a family adventure.

Marataba is a fantastic destination for a trip to South Africa with kids who are older kids and interested in wildlife and conservation. This unique park, part of a successful conservation story, offers hands-on experience in biodiversity and environmental restoration. Older kids will be thrilled by the game drives in one of the most game-rich areas of the Waterberg, spotting big cats, elephants, and both white and black rhinos, while also learning about the area's diverse flora, including rare trees and plants. Bird enthusiasts can marvel at the world's largest colony of endangered Cape vultures. The lodge itself provides a comfortable stay with amenities like a lounge, Wi-Fi, a retail store, a library, and a swimming pool with loungers and hammocks.

Set in the picturesque De Hoop Nature Reserve in South Africa, Morukuru Ocean House is an ideal choice for multigenerational travel. This solar-powered, private four-bedroom house, complete with stunning ocean views and child-friendly accommodations, offers guests both privacy and comfort. Activities range from guided nature tours to leisurely poolside relaxation, catering to all interests. From mid-July to November, it's a prime spot for whale watching. The modern design of the house, inspired by its natural surroundings, ensures a unique and enjoyable stay for a family trip to South Africa on one of the country’s most beautiful coastal reserves.

Chitwa Chitwa, located in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, is perfect for families of all ages. Stylish suites, each with a private plunge pool and sun deck, offer great wildlife viewing opportunities. The exclusive Chitwa Private House provides a more personalized experience with a dedicated ranger and private game drives. Amenities like a library, gym, spa, and pool cater to diverse interests, making it suitable for both young and older family members. And, of course, you can arrange a private game drive to accommodate varying schedules.

Kruger Shalati is one of a kind as it is set in a renovated train station on the Selati Bridge in Kruger National Park. It offers spectacular views and direct access to wildlife. The hotel features 31 luxurious rooms and suites with modern amenities, including ensuite bathrooms and butler service. Guests can choose from train carriage rooms with Juliet balconies or Bridge House suites with patios. Dining options include an African-inspired menu at The Bridge House Restaurant. A unique overhanging pool with a viewing deck is perfect for wildlife spotting. The Family Suite is great for larger groups, making Kruger Shalati a perfect blend of adventure and comfort during your Africa family vacation.

Montusi Mountain Lodge in the Kwazulu-Natal Drakensberg has breathtaking views of the Drakensberg Amphitheater, and is a haven for active families on a South Africa family vacation. Its 16 spacious suites, including family-friendly options for four adults, offer stunning mountain views. But, best of all, the lodge serves as a perfect base for outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, horse riding, and thrilling activities at a nearby adventure center with zip lines and paintball.

Babylonstoren, nestled in the Drakenstein Valley, is an idyllic retreat for a relaxing. This boutique farm hotel, surrounded by vineyards and orchards, offers a range of accommodations from historic manor house suites to secluded cottages. Families can explore the vast gardens, interact with farm animals, and enjoy activities like a maze and boating on the lake. The hotel boasts a renowned restaurant, Babel, focusing on organic, seasonal cuisine. Guests can participate in gardening, enjoy leisurely walks or bike rides through the property, and unwind in a unique spa with herbal treatments and various relaxation facilities.

Located along the Hermanus Lagoon on the whale coast, Mosaic Private Sanctuary offers a serene family getaway amidst nature. Set on 2,500 acres of conservation land, it provides a choice between intimate Lagoon Lodge chalets and self-catering Mosaic cottages, ideal for families seeking a longer stay. Guests can enjoy a range of activities including 4x4 beach trips, sunset boat cruises, kayaking, and whale watching, complemented by the tranquil environment and stunning views of the mountains and lagoon, making it a perfect spot for families to relax and connect with nature on their family trip to South Africa.